The Anaheim Ducks made a calculated move in the second round of the NHL Draft, tabbing defenseman Jayden Kurtz, an 18‑year‑old from Rogers, Minnesota. Kurtz spent the past season with the Chicago Steel of the USHL and skated for Rogers High School, where he logged 13 goals and 25 assists in 26 games, anchoring the club’s blue line.
A Defensive Prospect with Growing Impact
In 16 USHL appearances he recorded a modest 1‑2‑3 line, but his collegiate potential is clear. He has committed to the University of Wisconsin for the 2027‑28 campaign, a timeline that aligns with the development curve the Ducks envision for a defenseman who can transition to professional play.
Joining the Ducks adds a layer of depth to a blue‑line corps that is looking to blend youth with experience. Coaches have praised his positioning and willingness to join the rush, traits that could make him a regular fixture in the lineup within a few seasons.
Preston’s WHL Breakout
Another name generating buzz is Preston, a forward who split the season between Vancouver and Spokane in the WHL. Across 46 games he tallied 18 goals and 26 assists, a 44‑point output that placed him atop the rookie scoring leaderboard during the 2025 playoffs, where he posted 9‑7‑16 in 20 contests.
Preston’s international résumé is equally impressive. He represented Canada at the 2024 World Under‑17 Hockey Challenge, capturing gold with Team Canada White, and later earned bronze at the same tournament while also earning a spot on the roster for the 2026 Under‑18 World Championship.
The combination of strong WHL performance and repeated international exposure signals that Preston is on a fast track toward higher levels of competition. Fans of the Ducks and the broader hockey community alike will be watching his progression closely as he prepares for the next chapter.